Alabama head coach Nick Saban is very pleased with the energy and focus of his players to start the preparation for Kansas State in the Allstate Sugar Bowl.
No one chose to opt out — despite several scholarship players entering the NCAA transfer portal — and two defensive backs look to have their best game against the Wildcats at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, La. Justin Woodall, a former Crimson Tide safety, is back to work training Malachi Moore and Kool-Aid McKinstry. As a former BCS National Champion, Woodall wants his guys to be ready to give their best performances to end this season. Moore and McKinstry worked on footwork, agility, breaking on balls to force turnovers and change of direction drills. McKinstry had a strong year as a full-time starting cornerback.
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The sophomore has 34 tackles, two tackles for loss, a sack, 12 pass breakups (team-high), and an interception. Moore, a junior, has 27 tackles, five breakups, and returned a blocked punt for a touchdown. He has excelled on special teams throughout the year.
Alabama takes on K-State at 11:00 a.m. CT via ESPN. McKinstry and Moore are set for impact performances.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
